Birth Beyond the Basics: 10 Secrets for a More Comfortable Delivery - La Crosse Birth Photography

Hey there mama-to-be! So, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with all the information (or lack thereof) about giving birth. But don't worry, I’ve got you!

Here are 10 things your doctor probably didn't tell you about giving birth that will help you feel more prepared and in control.

(And hey, if these pique your interest, bring these up to your doctor at the next appointment!)

Epidurals are not the only form of pain relief available during labor.

Epidurals are a common form of pain relief during labor, but they are not the only option available. Other forms of pain relief include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, and natural methods such as hypnobirthing, acupuncture and massage. (Along with a Doula to help distract or empower you through!) These options can provide a more natural and less invasive form of pain relief.

Question for your doctor: What other pain relief options do they see often that’s effective other than epidural?

You might not need to give birth in the hospital. *Keep in mind of medical reasons.

Giving birth at home or in a birth center can provide a more relaxed and intimate setting for the birth of your baby. It allows you to have more control over the birthing process and can provide a more personalized experience. This option is safe for low-risk pregnancies and has similar or better outcomes compared to hospital births.

Question for your doctor: Would he/she support you and work with a home birth midwife if you decided to go this route?

You can bring your own music or sounds to the delivery room.

Music can have a powerful impact on our emotions, and it can help create a calm and soothing environment for you during labor. You can bring your own playlist, a sound machine, or even your own voice to help you relax and focus during labor. *You should hear the eclectic playlists I have listened to! This one time, at ban.....I mean at BIRTH. Ha Ha.

Question for your doctor: Can I bring music to the birthing room?

Birthing pools can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during labor.

Warm water can help ease the pain and discomfort of contractions, and it also allows you to move around more easily, which can help the baby move down the birth canal. Birthing pools can also provide a sense of privacy and intimacy during labor.

Question for your doctor: Are there birth pools at the hospital or another way I can use water to relax?

You will probably poop during labor (and that's okay!).

It's a normal and natural part of the birthing process, and your nurses and doctors are used to it. Don't let this concern hold you back, it's nothing to be embarrassed about.

Birthing positions - there are many different positions that can help make the birthing process easier.

There are SO MANY various birthing positions that can help make the birthing process easier, such as standing up, sitting down, on your hands and knees, or even lying down. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you.

Question for your doctor: In what positions are you willing to help me birth my baby? (A mama knows what feels right to her, the body will guide you)

Doulas are a great support and aren’t only used for birth. *Side note I am also a trained Doula.

A doula is a professional trained to provide emotional and physical support to a woman and her partner during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum period. A doula can help you with relaxation techniques, provide emotional support, and advocate for your wishes during birth. Women have been serving other women in childbirth for many centuries and have proven that support from another woman has a positive impact on the labor process! (There is so much more to being a doula but I will write more on that at a later date.)

Question for your doctor: Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?

You can eat and drink during a healthy labor, if you want to.

Having a light snack can help keep your energy levels up. It's important to listen to your body and your healthcare provider during labor, and to make sure you are well hydrated and nourished. Honey sticks are amazing to have on hand. Just remember that what you eat will probably end up coming back up! Keep it light!

Question: Under what circumstances will I not be allowed to eat or drink in labor?

The power of the mind - visualization, affirmations, and other relaxation techniques can help during labor.

Visualization and relaxation techniques such as hypnobirthing, yoga, and meditation can help you stay calm and focused during labor. It can also help to lower stress hormones and increase endorphins, which can make labor more manageable.

Question: Is there anything I can do now to learn how to cope with labor?

Cesarean sections can be gentle.

C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Your doctor and nurses will take great care of you and your baby during the procedure. It's important to remember that a C-section is a surgical procedure and there are risks associated with it, but it can also save the lives of both mother and baby in certain situations.

Question: In what circumstances do you perform C-sections? Will they do a gentle approach if not emergent? 

So, there you have it, mama. You're armed with some new information that will hopefully help you feel more confident and excited about your birth! I hope reading Birth Beyond the Basics has given you some solid ideas.

If you're still looking for a La Crosse area Birth Photographer, click here to see my portfolio of Birth images.